Ep 8. East Devon: Cob Castle

In season 13 episode 8 of Grand Designs titled "East Devon: Cob Castle," viewers are taken on a journey to witness the construction of a unique home built entirely out of cob – a mixture of clay, sand and straw – with inspiration drawn from medieval architecture and 21st century design.

The episode features a couple, Simon and Jasmine Dale, who decide to build their dream home in East Devon with an eco-friendly and sustainable approach. The couple had always been passionate about natural building materials and wanted to create a home that was both beautiful and functional. They were also determined to establish a self-sufficient lifestyle, growing their own food and generating their own power.

The story begins with the couple living in a yurt on their land and designing their cob castle with the help of architect, John Needham. They envisioned a home with curved walls and vaulted ceilings, complete with a large central atrium acting as a hub for the rest of the house.

The process of building the home was set to be challenging as the use of cob as a building material has many drawbacks. For starters, it's not commonly used in the UK and is prone to cracking and damage if not constructed properly. This meant that the couple would need to rely on a team of experts to ensure the build was structurally sound.

Throughout the episode, we see the challenges the couple face as they encounter various issues with the construction process, such as making sure the cob mixture was the correct consistency and dealing with a leaky roof. However, they overcome these obstacles with perseverance and hard work, demonstrating the true trials and tribulations of high-end design and construction.

As the build progresses, we witness several design features that make this home stand out. The curved walls and vaulted ceilings allow natural light to flood the interior while creating a sense of spaciousness. The central atrium acts as a ventilation system for the house, drawing warm air up and out, further reducing the need for additional cooling. The home is also powered by a combination of wind, solar and hydroelectric power, allowing the couple to live off-the-grid.

Towards the end of the episode, we see the final result of the couple's hard work and perseverance. The cob castle is a stunning example of how natural building materials can be incorporated into modern design, with contemporary amenities and functions. The couple's dream of living in harmony with nature while enjoying a luxurious lifestyle is now a reality.

In conclusion, Grand Designs season 13 episode 8 takes viewers on a unique journey, filled with challenges and successes, as a couple embarks on an ambitious build using an unfamiliar building material, while aiming for self-sufficiency and sustainability. The show highlights the importance of balancing eco-friendliness with luxury and creating a home that truly reflects one's dream and vision.